Definition

Having a sharp or biting quality, often used to describe a sarcastic or scornful manner. In chemistry, it refers to substances that have a high concentration of acid or possess the properties of an acid.

Example

Her acid remarks during the meeting left everyone feeling uncomfortable.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I just tried that new sour candy, and it was so acid!

Really? I love that kind of flavor; it’s so refreshing.

Yeah, but it was almost too much for me, like my mouth was on fire!

Haha, I get it! Some candies can be really intense with that acid taste.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of substance that has a sour flavor and can produce hydrogen ions when mixed with water. These substances can also react with bases and some metals to create salts.

Example

Lemon juice is a common example of an acid due to its sour taste.

Conversation

Did you know that lemon juice contains a lot of acid?

Yeah, that’s why it tastes so sour!

I wonder how much acid is in different fruits.

Root Explanation

Acid comes from the Latin word "acidus" (meaning sour or sharp). The term originally referred to substances that had a sour taste, which is a characteristic of many acids.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for sour, 'acidus', to remember that 'acid' refers to something that has a sour or sharp taste.

Visually Confused Words